Persistent omphalomesenteric duct and urachus presenting as an umbilical hernia

Abstract

Vitellointestinal duct anomalies, although one of the most frequent malformations to be found (2%-3% in population), they are most unlikely to cause symptoms. A persistent Vitellointestinal duct can induce abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, intestinal haemorrhage and umbilical sinus, fistula or hernia which commonly occurs in children. Patent vitellointestinal duct or persistent omphalomesenteric duct is a very unusual congenital anomaly which occurs in 2% of the population related to the embryonic yolk stalk. Similarly, urachal anomalies remain a rare finding, with the most common being a cyst or sinus followed by patent urachus and rarely a urachal diverticulum. Presenting symptoms include periumbilical discharge, pain and a palpable mass.Here, we report a case of an adult patient with patent vitellointestinal duct and urachus identified intraoperatively on diagnostic laparoscopy when being operated for umbilical hernia repair.

Keywords: General surgery; Small intestine.